Category: Holidays

A Christmas Miracle – Part 4

Elizabeth and Mary were key players in the Christmas Story. Each had a unique role in giving birth under different circumstances. Yet, each was obedient to God and fulfilled their miraculous divine appointments.

We will continue our consideration of the Miracle of Birth theme by exploring the emotions swirling around in a woman’s head “with child.”

The Miracle of Emotions During Pregnancy

Source: Etsy
Artist Unknown

We can all agree that emotions run all over the place in daily life, in some of us more than others. And certainly, more when pregnant. A woman’s first pregnancy is filled with an array of emotions that swirl around with her hormones, making them quite jumbled. From excitement…to…feelings of confidence sprinkled with inadequacies, it is a time in a woman’s life when success and failure take on a whole new meaning: Her baby solely depends on her. The woman is the incubator.

Yet, she is still a woman. She is trying to wrap her head around the never-ending changes in her body. She begins to think of her baby, herself, and the world around her.

She asks herself, “What is happening?”

The food cravings.
The sexual desire.
The baby.
The father.
The grandparents.
The extended family.

Anxiety, frustration, tiredness, joy, anticipation, delight, miracle.

Questions may include:

Will I have a healthy baby?
Why am I getting so fat?
How else will my body change?
How is my baby going to fit out of my body?
Why does the smell of food make me sick?
Why am I feeling this way? 
When will my nausea subside?
How does one take care of a baby?
Who will take care of the baby if I’m sick?
How will I be as a mother?
Will I be good enough?
I have no experience.
How will I manage all that is expected of me?

Anxiety, frustration, tiredness, joy, anticipation, love, doubt, delight, miracle.

In the next blog, we will more specifically, imagine how Elizabeth and Mary may have felt when pregnant.

#Birth #Christmas #Motherhood #Mary #Elizabeth #Faith #NavityStory #Emotions #Pregnancy

A Christmas Miracle – Part 3

In the last post, we talked about Elizabeth’s backstory. How Elizabeth and Mary were cousins pregnant at the same time.

The Miracle of Birth – The Backstory of Mary

The story begins with Mary, a young girl, and her fiancé, Joseph. 

Mary and Joseph were engaged.

Mary was a virgin, until the Holy Spirit visited and impregnated her, causing confusion for the pair. Not to mention family and friends as well. Theoretically, Mary was still a virgin. 

*Artist: Stephen B. Whatley: Mary and The Holy Baby Jesus – St Stephen’s Day 2012 www.stephenbwhatley.com 

“Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.”

Angel Gabriel

Of course, Joseph was quite angry that his betrothed was “with child.” And he knew it wasn’t his! 

Anger led to the Angel.

In a dream, an Angel visited Joseph and told him to care for Mary.

“Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

Angel Gabriel

And so it was. Joseph and Mary were a couple, and they were destined to become parents. Parents of the long-awaited Messiah.

Pillars of Faith

Elizabeth and Mary were pillars of faith and obedience to God. And so were their respective partners, Zechariah and Joseph. Although Elizabeth was well beyond her childbearing years, it was miraculous for her to conceive. It was her pregnancy that served as a precursor to Mary’s virgin birth. Mary’s conception was even more miraculous because it symbolized the divine nature of the birth of the Christ-child that transcended all logical and biological thoughts and constructs.

Transcending All Logic

Faith transcends logic. To the logical mind, we must see proof before something can be believed. Yet, as people of faith, we don’t have to see evidence. We believe because we “feel” the Spirit of God within us. After all, we were made in the image of God. It sure is awesome to “feel” God’s presence. Yet, many of us feel dry. Unheard. Empty. We ask, “Where are you, God.” And the answer is silence.

Is it possible to have faith when you don’t “feel” God’s presence. Faith is a choice. Choosing to believe regardless of your feelings will reap rewards whether you “feel” them or not.

We Are The Clay

There hasn’t been a time in my life when God was absent. Of course, there were times when I thought he abandoned me. Like when I was bullied in junior high school. Or during my first marriage. Or during the divorce. But, I realized that God was walking me through the darkness. So I could come out the other side. Like a piece of fine pottery after being in the kiln’s heat.

Sometimes, we must surrender logic to fully feel the Holy Spirit in us. If you feel lost, perhaps try to talk to God? Ask God to reveal his image to you. To feel his presence. To walk with you on your life journey. God is the peace that passeth all understanding.

A Christmas Miracle – Part 4, will discuss the Miracle of Emotions During Pregnancy.

#Birth #Christmas #Motherhood #Mary #Elizabeth #Faith #Nativity #Logic #Faith #Miracles

*Used by permission

A Christmas Miracle – Part 2

There is no doubt that Christmas time is a time of wonder and awe.

And what possibly could be more miraculous and wondrous than the Miracle of Birth? Today’s post begins with two special ladies from the New Testament who give birth to two extraordinary baby boys. 

Elizabeth and Mary. Both mothers conceive according to God’s divine plan. We will explore each one separately.

The Miracle of Birth – The Backstory of Elizabeth

Let me set the stage.

Artist Credit: Of Knowledge Painting by Kd Neeley

Mary and Elizabeth are cousins and are pregnant at the same time. Elizabeth is an older, more mature woman married to Zechariah, a priest. Elizabeth was barren, and she and her husband longed for a child, yet they knew time was running out. 

Why were children so important in Biblical Times?

At that time, children were a sign of God’s favor. Since Zechariah was a priest, it is easy to imagine people talking behind their backs about them being childless. How could a priest not have children? They must have been the talk of the town. Until…

Gabriel.

The Angel who pays a visit to Zechariah.

Elizabeth & Son, John the Baptist

Gabriel not only tells Zechariah that Elizabeth will bear a child, but his name will be John, and that the baby would grow to be a man who would prepare the way for the Lord. 

Just like Sarah laughed in disbelief when God told her she would have a baby in her old age, Zechariah doubted this message from God. Because Zechariah doubted, he could not talk until the baby was born. God silenced him.

Little did Zechariah know at the time that John would be the voice calling in the wilderness.

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

Matthew 3:2

The Voice of God

Have you ever heard a voice calling in the wilderness? Or God speak to you directly? Or witness a profound moment in which it felt God intervened on your behalf?

Once, I was in my car heading west on Route 1 from Hoboken to Maplewood, NJ. There was traffic, and a car stopped abruptly in front of me. There was no time to react. Yet, I felt an unnatural force stop my car from hitting the car in front of me. I remember thanking my guardian angel to this day.

Similarly, once, I was traveling from Hoboken to Stamford, CT. It was in a blizzard. As I was rounding a corner in Tarrytown, several cars spun out and collided. My car spun out, too. But my car landed in a small ditch. Sure, I was rattled. But I was safe. My car was safe. And I was able to drive the rest of the way home. Once again, my guardian angel was watching over me.

God and his army of angels tend to show up when you least expect them. I’d love to hear about your experiences with God.

In the next post, we will continue this theme of The Miracle of Birth. We will further explore the mothers who gave birth to two religious leaders who changed the world.

#Christmas #Birth #Motherhood #Mary #Elizabeth #Faith #Nativity #Emotions #Miracles

A Christmas Miracle – Part 1

Introduction

To faith-based people, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of their savior, Jesus.

Most of us are familiar with the significant elements of the Christmas Story, or as some might say, the Nativity Story. Like baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and the manger. Then came the shepherds and the wise men. 

The Bible definitely doesn’t wrap stories up with neat bows. They are often confusing and void of details. Yet, the Bible has withstood through the ages as the most significant piece of literature of all time.

Why?

Because its words pierce the heart and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to each one of us uniquely. And maybe the Bible was written just for you and me!

The Miracle of Motherhood

Before we can appreciate and fully understand the meaning of Jesus’ birth, we need a refresher on noteworthy mothers in the Bible. We begin today’s post with the miracle of motherhood.

In the Bible, several women give birth to baby boys, who become some of the greatest leaders in the Bible. These Old Testament women faced infertility and were initially unable to conceive. Some were even past child-bearing age! Yet, through God’s divine plan, each went on to experience the miracle of birth.

Sarah & Son, Isaac

There is Sarah, the wife of Abraham, who becomes pregnant and gives birth to Isaac (Genesis 21:1).

Rebecca & Twins, Esau & Jacob

Interestingly, next is Rebecca, the wife of Isaac, who gives birth to twins Esau and Jacob (Genesis 25:25-26).

Rachel & Son, Joseph

After Rebecca comes Rachel, Jacob’s wife. Jacob is the man who married Leah by mistake (wearing a veil in the bridal tent) and then has to work seven more years for his Uncle Laban’s approval to marry his true love, Rachel. Rachel becomes the mother of Joseph (Genesis 30:22).

Manoah’s Wife & Son, Samson

Then, there is the unnamed woman who is Manoah’s wife. She conceives and gives birth to Samson.

Hannah & Son, Samuel

Next is Hannah, who cries out to God and finally has Samuel. After weaning, she presents Samuel to Eli, the Priest, who then raises Samuel in the house of God (1 Samuel 1:20). 

Each of these women was deeply spiritual. They each cried out and prayed fervently for a child. Some, for decades. Sarah even laughed when God promised Abraham descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. She waited more than fourteen years for the prophecy to come to fruition. 

The Miracle of Surrender

These women who become mothers teach us that God controls even the minute details of our lives. Even though the Bible may be devoid of details, there is nothing in this world that God does not know. There is a plan for you and for me.

How do we ensure we are doing what God wants us to do? For me, the first step is surrender.

We need to let go and let God.

When we give ourselves to God, we open ourselves to new possibilities. New doors to open and go through. You will only know what is on the other side of the door if you open it.

Reflecting on a point of surrender in my life, a pivotal moment stands out – back in 2015. Faced with a failed job search in the tri-state area, I turned to prayer. “God, I surrender and will go where you lead.”

The Miracle of a Dream Come True

I expanded my job search nationwide, leading to a surprising job offer in Arkansas. Little did I know what God had in store for me. My dream of teaching academic courses was fulfilled a few short years later. Only God knew of that dream, and it came true!

How do these biblical stories relate to you and your life’s journey? Has there been a time in your life that you surrendered to God? I’d love to hear about it.

As we close, may this Christmas be a time for you to be open to the possibilities of what might lie ahead.

Go ahead and open the door.

#miracles #relationships #mothers #motherhood #christmas

Behind Closed Doors – Artist: Unknown (From Pinterest)

A Thanksgiving Mindset – Part 4

Achieving a Thanksgiving mindset requires gratitude, introspection, and transformation. We must also learn to intentionally pause so we can recharge and refocus. Once we do that, we can reflect and reset.

“It’s never too late to press the reset button on your life.”

Unknown

Recharge

Recharging involves replenishing our inner resources. It encompasses activities that rejuvenate our spirits—whether it’s through solitary introspection, pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or immersing ourselves in nature’s tranquility. This process isn’t merely about resting; it’s about actively seeking what revitalizes us, ensuring we’re emotionally, mentally, and spiritually equipped for what lies ahead.

Refocus

Refocusing invites us to reassess our goals, recalibrate our energies, and realign our intentions. It’s about acknowledging the distractions that pull us away from our desired path and consciously steering ourselves back on track. Amidst the chaos of daily life, these moments of realignment act as compass points guiding us toward growth and development.

Our lives are so busy that we must consciously take a break from our busyness. Take a deep breath. Let’s think about where we have been and where we are going

Reflection

Reflection serves as the cornerstone of personal growth. It’s the conscious act of looking back at our experiences, discerning the lessons they offer, and applying these insights to propel us forward. By reflecting on life’s twists and turns, we pave the way for continuous improvement. Identifying our personal blessings and the profound impact our interactions may have on others can serve as a catapult to more empathy, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our lives.

Reset

Artist Credit: Clymenza Hawkins

Thanksgiving can serve as a reset button. It’s about shaking off the old, shedding what no longer fits, and embracing the chance for a fresh start. Picture it as a makeover for your mindset—an opportunity to grow into a newer, better version of yourself.

A reset is that pivotal moment where we let go of what’s holding us back. It’s about taking a hard look at what’s not working and daring to reimagine what could be. It’s that push to let go of old habits, beliefs, or fears that no longer serve us.

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to refocus, recharge, reflect, and reset. As we express gratitude for what we have, we also open ourselves up to the idea of change. It’s like saying thanks for what’s been and getting excited about what’s to come—a chance to start afresh.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

A Thanksgiving Mindset – Part 3

A Thanksgiving Mindset – Part 2 focused on a simple message. 

Transformation and Introspection.

Image Credit: @ Bohu _ Allure

To recap, we discussed developing gratitude, improving ourselves through self-assessment tools, learning and understanding healthy relationships, and practicing mindfulness. 

Let’s continue with Transformation.

This morning, a good friend of mine posted this to her Facebook page:

“If you fail, never give up because fail means ‘First Attempt In Learning.’ The end is not the end. In fact, the end means ‘Effort Never Dies.’ If you get no as an answer, no means ‘Next Opportunity.’ Change your mindset!”

Author Unknown

Growth Mindset

For transformation to occur, we have to change our mindset. A growth mindset sees challenges as opportunities for learning and development, much like the cycles of planting, nurturing, and harvesting in nature. It stems from the belief that we can do better. We can improve. We can become better people. Why? Because there is no limit on learning. We can improve ourselves by shifting our thinking and reactions and being proactive. 

Proactive to more intentional awareness.
Thinking before we speak. 
Choosing our words more carefully. 
Learning the art of “pause.” 
Listening more and speaking less.
Observing nonverbal communication in dialogue. 

If we actively practice healthy communication, we will eventually, transform into something different than we were or even currently are. 

Fixed Mindset

Shifting from a growth mindset to a fixed mindset, the fixed mindset perceives the world as black and white. It is, or it isn’t. Growth is stifled, like a dormant seed unwilling to sprout. Those who seem stuck might be fixated on something they can’t get past. It is overwhelming. Whatever the “it” is. One way of becoming “unstuck” is by talking. Talking it out with a trustworthy friend. Or by seeking professional help. We can’t fix a problem that isn’t ours. What we can do is to do something ourselves. Accept the situation and learn from it. What can we do differently next time? What can we learn from it?

 “With a fixed mindset, it can be hard to find motivation to work through perceived weaknesses because the ability to change may seem as hopeless as changing your eye color. In contrast, with a growth mindset, you’ll see your perceived weakness as a challenge that can be motivating — and even fun — to overcome.”

Mia Primeu, Stanford Today, November 10, 2023.

Thanksgiving to Transformation

Thanksgiving is the perfect canvas for cultivating a transformation mindset. Instead of focusing solely on what’s on the table, we can shift our attention to what we are grateful for—the love of family, the support of friends, and the opportunities surrounding us. A transformational mindset encourages us to foster a sense of appreciation for the present moment and provide grace (tons of it, perhaps) to those who surround us. As we sit down to a Thanksgiving feast, we can view the past year’s challenges not as obstacles but as stepping stones for personal and collective growth.

Let’s not think only of ourselves but others.

Pondering the transformation process begins with recognizing past experiences of ourselves and others, understanding reactions to life’s circumstances, and what we can do to make a positive mark on the people who mean the most to us and the world at large.

Sacrifice
Rebirth
Emergence 
Growth
Adaptation
Flight
Legacy

Transforming into people God wants us to be can only be done when we adopt a growth mindset. 

We don’t have to be fixed; we can choose to change

– a canvas yet to be painted.

A Thanksgiving Mindset – Part 2

Last weekend, I dragged my husband to the Arts and Crafts Festival to a section of Tampa called Temple Terrace. The closest parking was about a half mile from the event. When we walked through a parking area into the park, a regal-looking historic building sat majestically on a bed of lush green grass.

Artist Credit: Chrysalis by Patricia Allingham Carlson
fine america dot com

Built in 1914 as a horse stable, The Woodmont Clubhouse is the oldest structure in Temple Terrace. It served as a schoolhouse and is now the home of the Woman’s Club and a venue for special events.

As I squinted at the building, I marveled at its timeless beauty and rich history. I found myself lost in thoughts of transformation. The transformation of a horse stable to a schoolhouse. And, then, to a venue for special occasions.

I thought of resilience and evolution. This brought me back to the theme of transformation. Which, of course, means personal growth for me. I pondered how we could convert this sense of transformation into a Thanksgiving mindset?

Timeless beauty.
Architectural grandeur.
Serene and tranquil.
A treasure trove of memories.
Harmonious and picturesque.

It is simple:
Transformation and Introspection.

You can’t have one without the other.

Let’s begin with Introspection.

“It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it. It’s not enough to dream of it. It’s not even enough to pray for it.
You must work at it.”

Eleanor Roosevelt

Introspection requires:

  • Developing a Gratitude Attitude
  • Improving Self through Assessment Tools
  • Understanding Healthy Dynamics of Relationships
  • Practicing Mindfulness
  • Respecting Cultural and Spiritual Interpretations

Introspection demands a heart of gratitude to understand the emotions and attachments we have with things. Embracing ourselves as unique sons and daughters of the Almighty Designer of the Universe initiates this journey.

You must work at it!

Self-improvement involves learning lessons, identifying areas for growth, and recognizing strengths through self-assessment tools.

You must work at it!

Strengthening our relationships with others involves observing and learning from them.

You must work at it!

By examining our origins, family system, and individual experiences, we can better recognize triggers so we can redirect ourselves in a healthier way. Digging deep into childhood and unpacking past trauma takes work! It is not for the faint of heart.

You must work at it!

Mindfulness, a multifaceted practice, involves grounding ourselves in the present, examining the past through a magnifying glass with a different lens, creating space to dream, and setting goals for personal growth.

You must work at it!

By fostering a Thanksgiving mindset of introspection, we can truly celebrate beyond material abundance to a godly abundance within ourselves and share joy with those we cherish.

We’ll explore Transformation next time.

A Thanksgiving Mindset – Part 1

Artist Credit: Gratitude by
Victoria Campbell

The other day, I was in a Marshalls’ store and Christmas music was piping through the speakers. I caught myself humming to the music, and then I stopped. Dead in my tracks. And out loud, I quietly muttered, “It’s not even Thanksgiving yet!”

As I strolled the aisles, I noticed the festive and glittery Christmas section. There were huge bins filled with holiday merchandise on wheels waiting to find a home on the store floor. I pondered how we could convert this sense of abundance into a Thanksgiving mindset?

It is simple:
Thanks and Giving.

Let’s begin with gratitude.

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

Melody Beattie

Let’s be thankful for who we are.

Where we are. 

How we are. 

And why we are. 

Redirect.

Instead of conforming to the materialism of the holiday, we can redirect our focus to enriching our own lives and the lives of others. Which can be done by doing instead of buying.

By focusing less on the shopping gods who want us to spend our money on frivolous gifts, we can spend more time being grateful for what we have right now.

Who are the people in your life who genuinely want you in theirs? Who extends a warm welcome? Who reaches out for help or to simply say, “Hi?” Thanksgiving is the perfect time to center our thoughts on gratitude for the people and experiences that shape our lives. 

When we embrace a mindset of thankfulness, we will naturally want to give back to others. We want to help those in need. Those less fortunate.

What can we do to help others?

We can purchase one small item when we go shopping and place it in a box to give away during the holidays.

Or, we can visit an elderly person in a nursing home who may want some company. 

A video call to catch up with someone who impacted our lives and whom we have lost touch with might also be an excellent expression of gratitude.

By fostering a Thanksgiving mindset of both thankfulness and giving, we can truly celebrate the season in a way that extends beyond material abundance to a godly abundance of doing good for others.

But what if you don’t feel thankful? 

I think most of us would agree that stress and anxiety are part of the holidays, no matter what stage of life you are in. Even as a youngster, I remember feeling anxious about what Santa would leave under the tree. Would it really be what I wanted? Or, something else?

So, I get it. It sure is difficult to focus on gratitude when life sometimes, just simply sucks.

I get that – all too well.

If the holidays are overwhelming, please reach out to a trusted friend, or a professional to help you navigate this time of year.

I and Thou: A Tribute to Mothers

A Vessel of Love

You are a mother, a giver of life,
and a vessel of love.

You are a mother, a source of strength,
and a spiritual rock.

You are a mother, a teacher,
and a light on a path.

You are a mother, a woman who inspires, uplifts,
and treasures relationships.

You are a mother, firmly rooted,
imparting wisdom to those who seek it.

You are a mother, an anchor, steadfast,
and unshakable.

You are a mother, who loves unconditionally,
no matter the circumstances.

You are a mother, a compassionate, kind,
and daughter of the Almighty.

You are a mother, a hopeful, inspirational,
and uplifting person.

You are a mother, a mother to many,
and a legacy to follow.

You are a mother, a precious creation,
to be celebrated today and every day.

Image Credit: Mother & Son
Painting Valley dot com

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

Today is National Reconciliation Day!

Hello? Is anyone home?
Go Ahead…Call or Text & Say Hello

What is National Reconciliation Day, and why must we spread the word?

First, National Reconciliation Day brings awareness to the brokenness of relationships around us. What would it look like if estranged young adult children knew there was a day to think about reconnecting with a parent they haven’t spoken to for years?

Second, by spreading the word, people will start thinking about their relationships or perhaps about someone they know who may need to reconcile.

Here is information from another post:

National Reconciliation Day, which is on April 2nd each year, urges us to repair relationships that have been damaged through hurtful words or actions. While many different “Days of Reconciliation” are held worldwide, this observance occurs each year on April 2nd.

PLEASE SHARE, AND SHARE, & SHARE.